The Fourth Sunday of Easter is always Good Shepherd Sunday. There is an incongruity about it in the modern world. Do any of you have sheep, or did any of you grow up around them? One hundred years ago there were sheep in the meadow across the street, but not anymore.

I have lots of experience with cows and chickens, some with dogs, more than I want with cats, but none with sheep. I have never seen a shepherd. I have seen sheep dogs out west, but no shepherds.

But this image remains popular: Jesus, as the Risen Lord, is the shepherd who leads and cares for us, who are like sheep. (more…)